Why Recognizing Indigenous Peoples' Day is a Forward-Thinking Move for Modern Businesses

Embracing progress can pay off for industry leaders and emerging businesses

In recent years, organizations across sectors have been reassessing their values, practices, and the way they engage with their workforce in order to build more inclusive and culturally aware workplaces. One such conversation centers around the recognition of Indigenous Peoples' Day, a growing movement that seeks to replace Columbus Day with a holiday that honors and celebrates Indigenous cultures, histories, and contributions.

Since 1937, Columbus Day has been widely observed in the United States, commemorating Christopher Columbus’s 1492 voyage to the Americas. However, this celebration overlooks the profound impacts of colonialism on Indigenous peoples, from displacement to violence to cultural erasure. In contrast, Indigenous Peoples' Day offers an opportunity to correct historical narratives and foster a workplace environment that aligns with contemporary values of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

This article explores why companies should shift their recognition from Columbus Day to Indigenous Peoples' Day, and how doing so can contribute to a more inclusive, informed, and socially responsible workplace culture.

1. Acknowledging Historical Realities

The celebration of Columbus Day romanticizes a historical figure whose arrival in the Americas marked the beginning of centuries of exploitation, colonization, and oppression of Indigenous peoples. By continuing to celebrate Columbus, organizations risk perpetuating a narrative that ignores the suffering and resilience of Native populations.

Recognizing Indigenous Peoples' Day reflects a commitment to acknowledging the full scope of history, including the impact of colonization on Indigenous communities. It shifts the focus from celebrating colonization to honoring the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous people. This realignment helps organizations demonstrate that they are mindful of historical injustices and are committed to fostering a workplace that promotes respect for all cultures.

2. Aligning with DEI Principles

Today’s workforce (particularly younger workers) increasingly demands that employers demonstrate a strong commitment to DEI initiatives. By recognizing Indigenous Peoples' Day, organizations can signal that they value and respect diverse cultural identities and perspectives. This decision reflects an active stance toward equity and social justice, moving beyond symbolic gestures to engage in meaningful cultural recognition.

Indigenous Peoples' Day is an opportunity for organizations to educate their employees about Indigenous cultures, histories, and contributions to society, fostering a deeper understanding and respect for diversity. Such recognition can improve workplace morale, enhance the sense of belonging among Indigenous employees, and create a more inclusive environment for all. This shift also aligns with broader DEI strategies, as it shows that the organization is attuned to evolving societal standards and willing to reflect those values internally.

3. Strengthening Organizational Values and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

Companies today are increasingly judged not only by their profits but also by their social responsibility and the values they stand for. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) encompasses a company’s efforts to contribute positively to society, and one crucial aspect of CSR is cultural respect and inclusion.

By officially recognizing Indigenous Peoples' Day, businesses can make a clear statement about their commitment to social equity and cultural recognition. This shift sends a message that the company supports underrepresented groups, is willing to engage in difficult but necessary conversations about history and culture, and takes tangible steps to promote inclusivity. These actions resonate not only with employees but also with customers, clients, and stakeholders who expect businesses to operate with integrity and a sense of social responsibility.

4. Supporting Indigenous Communities

Recognition of Indigenous Peoples' Day also provides companies with an opportunity to directly support Indigenous communities. Beyond symbolic recognition, businesses can take actionable steps, such as:

• Partnering with Indigenous-led organizations to host educational events, webinars, or cultural exchanges that raise awareness and promote understanding.

• Donating to causes that support Indigenous rights, education, and economic development.

• Purchasing goods from Indigenous-owned businesses, contributing to the economic empowerment of Indigenous communities.

By leveraging the recognition of Indigenous Peoples' Day to foster relationships with Indigenous organizations and causes, companies can play an active role in uplifting Indigenous voices and addressing historical inequities.

5. Enhancing Employee Engagement and Retention

Employees, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, are more likely to stay engaged and loyal to organizations that actively support inclusive values. By adopting Indigenous Peoples' Day, companies create an environment where employees feel seen, respected, and valued for their identities and histories.

This recognition can be accompanied by inclusive programming such as company-wide discussions, guest speakers from Indigenous communities, or workshops on cultural competency. These initiatives provide employees with opportunities to learn, reflect, and engage with the importance of Indigenous cultures in both historical and modern contexts.

Such an approach fosters a culture of empathy and learning, which can enhance overall employee engagement, retention, and satisfaction. When employees see that their organization is willing to confront difficult historical truths and take steps toward greater inclusivity, they are more likely to feel connected to the company’s mission and values.

6. Aligning with Broader Cultural Shifts

There is a growing trend across cities, states, and institutions in the U.S. to replace Columbus Day with Indigenous Peoples' Day. As of 2024, over 14 states and more than 130 cities have officially adopted Indigenous Peoples' Day in place of Columbus Day, and this number continues to grow. Forward-thinking companies that align with this movement are positioning themselves as culturally aware and progressive.

By joining the movement to recognize Indigenous Peoples' Day, businesses demonstrate that they are in tune with larger societal shifts and are proactive in reflecting the values of inclusivity and social justice that increasingly define public sentiment. This not only enhances the company’s image but also helps attract clients and talent who prioritize working with socially responsible organizations.

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Recognizing Indigenous Peoples' Day in the workplace is more than a symbolic gesture; it is a critical step toward fostering an inclusive, culturally aware, and socially responsible work environment. By shifting away from Columbus Day, companies can better align with modern values, acknowledge historical realities, and demonstrate their commitment to DEI.

For businesses aiming to enhance employee engagement, strengthen their brand, and uphold the principles of corporate social responsibility, adopting Indigenous Peoples' Day offers a meaningful opportunity to contribute positively to both the workplace and society at large.

At Bantam Impact Consulting, we encourage organizations to take this step, not only as a reflection of their values but as a means of actively promoting a culture of respect, understanding, and inclusivity in today’s ever-evolving workplace.